Diversity
Equity
&
Inclusion

Purpose:

The Angel Project, Inc. is committed to creating a culture of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) for both our staff and clients. This policy aims to ensure that everyone, regardless of their background, identity, or experience, is treated with respect, dignity, and fairness. We believe in the power of diverse perspectives and strive to create an environment where all individuals feel valued, empowered, and supported.

Scope:

This policy applies to all staff, clients, volunteers, and stakeholders involved with The Angel Project, Inc.

Core Values:

1. Diversity:

   • We recognize and embrace the unique qualities, experiences, and perspectives that each individual brings to The Angel Project, Inc. Diversity includes, but is not limited to, race, ethnicity, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, socioeconomic status, disability, cultural background, religion, and life experiences.

2. Equity:

   • We are committed to ensuring that everyone has access to the same opportunities and resources, and that fairness is maintained in all decisions. Equity involves identifying and addressing barriers to equal access and opportunities, and working to create a level playing field for all individuals.

3. Inclusion:

   • We strive to create an environment where every individual feels welcome, respected, and supported. Inclusion means that all voices are heard, and all people are valued for who they are. We aim to foster an inclusive atmosphere in all aspects of our work, both in our internal operations and in the services we provide to the community.

Policy Statement:

At The Angel Project, Inc., we are dedicated to creating and maintaining a work and service environment that respects and celebrates diversity and promotes fairness. This includes:

1. Staff:

   • We are committed to recruiting, retaining, and promoting staff from diverse backgrounds, ensuring that all employees have equal opportunities for growth and advancement.

   • We will provide regular training on DEI topics, such as unconscious bias, microaggressions, and cultural competency, to foster an inclusive and respectful workplace.

   • We encourage an open-door policy where staff can raise concerns about DEI-related issues, knowing they will be addressed with the utmost care and professionalism.

   • We will implement systems to track diversity metrics to ensure that our hiring and promotion processes are aligned with our DEI goals.

   • We are committed to providing a harassment-free work environment. Discrimination, harassment, or retaliation in any form will not be tolerated.

2. Clients:

   • We are dedicated to offering a safe, inclusive, and supportive environment for all clients, regardless of their background, identity, or circumstances.

   • We will actively work to ensure that our services are accessible to all individuals, including those with disabilities, those from underrepresented communities, and those facing barriers to service.

   • We will respect and honor the diverse identities and needs of our clients, providing personalized care that is responsive to their unique experiences and challenges.

   • We will create opportunities for client feedback, ensuring that individuals feel heard and that their experiences contribute to the continuous improvement of our services.

Action Plan:

1. Training & Education:

   • All staff members will receive DEI training as part of their orientation and on an ongoing basis, focusing on creating an inclusive culture and eliminating barriers to equity.

   • We will provide DEI resources and materials to staff and clients, ensuring that everyone has the tools and knowledge to contribute to an inclusive environment.

2. Accountability & Reporting:

   • We will establish clear channels for reporting any DEI-related issues, including discrimination, harassment, or bias, and will take all complaints seriously.

   • We will regularly evaluate our progress in meeting DEI objectives through surveys, focus groups, and other feedback mechanisms. Results will be shared transparently with staff and stakeholders.

   • Leadership will hold regular reviews to ensure that DEI practices are being integrated into every aspect of The Angel Project’s operations and client services.

3. Community Engagement:

   • We will seek input from diverse community groups and stakeholders to ensure our services reflect the needs and aspirations of the community we serve.

   • We will collaborate with local organizations that promote DEI and work to build partnerships that support inclusive programs and services.

Commitment to Continuous Improvement:

The Angel Project, Inc. understands that creating a truly inclusive environment requires continuous effort. We are committed to regularly revisiting and improving our DEI practices to ensure that we are meeting the needs of all those we serve. Feedback from our staff, clients, and the broader community will be central to this ongoing process.

Non-Discrimination Statement:

The Angel Project, Inc. does not discriminate against any individual or group based on race, color, national origin, gender identity, sexual orientation, disability, age, religion, or any other characteristic protected by law. We are committed to ensuring that all individuals are treated equitably and with dignity.

Conclusion:

By adhering to this DEI policy, The Angel Project, Inc. will continue to strengthen our commitment to fostering an environment of diversity, equity, and inclusion, both for our staff and for those we serve. We believe that by supporting and celebrating the differences of others, we enrich the work we do and create a more compassionate and effective organization.